中澳签署自由贸易协定

China and Australia have signed a declaration of intent on a landmark free trade deal after about a decade of negotiations.

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbot and visiting Chinese President Xi Jinping witnessed the signing ceremony Monday at parliament in the capital, Canberra.

Under the pact, China is expected to open up markets to Australian farm exporters and the services sector, while easing restrictions on Chinese investment in Australia.  All tariffs on Australian resources will be scrapped, along with duties on beef and sheep exports.  The trade deal will also make it easier for Australian banks, insurance companies and universities to do business in China.

Prior to the signing, President Xi told the Australian parliament that his goal is to double China\'s national income by 2020 and create a modern socialist country.  He said Beijing is dedicated to upholding peace.  He received a standing ovation at the end of his address.

Critics of the free trade agreement believe it could raise food prices for Australian consumers.

澳大利亚总理阿博特与到访的中国国家主席习近平在澳大利亚首都堪培拉的议会大厦出席了签署仪式。

按照自由贸易协定，中国将向澳大利亚农产品和服务业开放市场，同时放松对中国在澳大利亚投资的限制。针对澳大利亚资源以及牛羊肉的所有关税将被取消。此外，自由贸易协议将使澳大利亚银行、保险公司和大学在中国从事商业活动更加容易。

习近平在签署仪式前对澳大利亚议员们说，他的目标是在2020年之前将中国的国民收入翻一番，建立一个现代化的社会主义国家。他表示，北京致力于维护和平。习近平讲话结束后，议员们起立鼓掌。

反对签署自由贸易协定的人士说，这种协定可能使澳大利亚消费者承担更高的食品价格。